plate no. 2559
Portuguese Woman
James Lesesne Wells, 1940
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in tonal shading and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting figures and still life elements within an interior setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and proportions of the figure, table, and background elements.
- step 02
Define the main shapes and contours of the figure, paying close attention to the pose and expression.
- step 03
Block in the major areas of light and shadow using a mid-tone value.
- step 04
Gradually build up darker values in the shadows to create depth and volume.
- step 05
Add highlights to the areas of the figure and still life that are directly illuminated.
- step 06
Develop the background elements, using lighter values and less detail to create atmospheric perspective.
- step 07
Refine the details of the figure, still life, and background, paying attention to textures and patterns.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the values and contrasts to enhance the overall impact of the painting.
color palette
primary · gray · black · white
secondary · neutral brown
Varying the ratios of black and white will create the range of grays needed. A touch of brown can warm up the grays.
techniques
- ·tonal shading
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure
- →Ignoring the principles of atmospheric perspective
- →Incorrect proportions of the figure
materials
surface · drawing paper
required
- ·charcoal pencils (various grades)
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·drawing paper
- ·blending stumps
- ·fixative spray
- ·ruler
optional
- ·tortillon
- ·sandpaper block
Use a smooth drawing paper for easier blending. Consider using a toned paper for a head start on mid-tones.
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